ASUU Suspends Warning Strike, Issues FG One-Month Ultimatum

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has suspended its two-week warning strike, effective midnight today, following an emergency National Executive Council meeting in Abuja. The decision brings relief to students and parents, allowing lectures to resume in public universities nationwide.

ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, announced the suspension, citing “useful engagements” with the Federal Government, including talks led by Alhaji Yayale Ahmed on October 16 and 18. The strike, which began October 13, demanded the renegotiation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement, payment of withheld salaries, earned allowances, university revitalization, and an end to alleged victimization of members.

The union acknowledged interventions from the Nigeria Labour Congress, students, and the Deputy Senate President, which pushed the government to resume negotiations. However, ASUU issued a one-month ultimatum for the government to fully resolve these issues, warning of stronger action if demands are unmet.

The Education Minister, Dr. Tunji Alausa, had noted N50 billion released for allowances and N150 billion budgeted for 2025. While students welcome the suspension, many urge swift government action to avoid future disruptions in Nigeria’s struggling education sector.